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Events / Business / Lee Health names Ben Spence CEO
Business CEO appointment

Lee Health names Ben Spence CEO

Analysis based on 6 articles · First reported Jun 08, 2026 · Last updated Jun 10, 2026

Sentiment
50
Attention
2
Articles
6
Market Impact
General
Live prominence charts, article sentiment distribution, and event development timeline available on the Ergen Dashboard
Market Impact

The appointment of Ben Spence as CEO of Lee Health is expected to provide stability and a clear strategic direction for the healthcare system, which could positively impact its operational efficiency and long-term financial health. This leadership transition is viewed favorably by the market as it ensures continuity and leverages internal expertise.

Healthcare
Event Summary

Lee Health, one of Florida's largest health systems, has named Ben Spence as its next President and Chief Executive Officer, effective October 1, 2026. Spence, currently the Chief Operating Officer, will succeed Dr. Larry Antonucci, who is retiring after nine years in the role. The appointment follows an extensive national search conducted in partnership with Heidrick & Struggles. Joseph Catti, chair of the Lee Health Board of Directors, highlighted Spence's deep understanding of the organization's mission and his vision for healthcare in Southwest Florida. Spence has been with Lee Health for over three decades, holding various leadership positions including Chief Financial Officer, and is expected to ensure a seamless leadership transition.

Entities Involved
oth
Lee Health
Lee Health has appointed a new President and CEO, Ben Spence, ensuring leadership continuity and a clear vision for its future growth and transformation in Southwest Florida.
Importance 100.0 Sentiment 50.0
per
Ben Spence
Ben Spence has been named the new President and CEO of Lee Health, succeeding Dr. Larry Antonucci. His extensive experience within the organization positions him to lead its next phase of growth.
Importance 100.0 Sentiment 70.0
per
Larry Antonucci
Dr. Larry Antonucci is retiring as President and CEO of Lee Health after nine years, facilitating a leadership transition to Ben Spence.
Importance 70.0 Sentiment 0.0
stock
Heidrick & Struggles
Heidrick & Struggles partnered with Lee Health to conduct the nationwide search for the new President and CEO, successfully identifying Ben Spence.
Importance 30.0 Sentiment 10.0
per
Joseph Catti
Joseph Catti, chair of the Lee Health Board of Directors, oversaw the search process and expressed confidence in Ben Spence's appointment.
Importance 20.0 Sentiment 0.0
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